Greenville, SC, August 19, 2025
News Summary
Traffic in Greenville and Spartanburg counties faced significant disruptions Monday morning due to two separate crashes on I-85. A cyclist also succumbed to injuries from a recent accident, while fire department personnel were injured responding to a medical emergency. As fatalities on South Carolina roads continue to rise, authorities emphasize the need for improved safety measures.
Major Traffic Disruptions in Greenville and Spartanburg Counties Due to Multiple Crashes
The South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) reported significant traffic disruptions on Monday morning following two separate crashes in Greenville and Spartanburg counties. The first incident, involving a crash on I-85 northbound near exit 54 (Pelham Road exit), created extensive traffic backups in Greenville County, while the second crash occurred on I-85 southbound at mile marker 62 in Spartanburg County.
By 7:40 a.m., all lanes were reopened at both crash sites, allowing traffic to resume normal flow. However, the traffic disruptions coincided with a weather alert, where residents faced potential triple-digit heat and the chance of storms throughout the day, complicating travel conditions further.
Fatal Bicycle Accident in Fair Play
In a separate incident, 69-year-old James M. Adams from Fair Play died as a result of injuries sustained in a bicycle crash that occurred on S.C. 182 near the intersection with East Spearman Road on August 12. Adams, who was wearing a helmet at the time of the accident, was transported to Greenville Memorial Hospital but succumbed to his injuries on August 15 at 10:22 p.m. The South Carolina Highway Patrol is currently investigating the circumstances surrounding this tragic event.
Injuries to Fire Department Personnel
Additionally, two employees from the Glassy Mountain Fire Department were injured in a crash while they were responding to a medical emergency. This crash took place in northern Greenville County, between BeLue Mill Road and Highway 14. All involved, including the driver of the other vehicle, were transported to Greenville Memorial Hospital. Information about their current medical conditions has not been disclosed, and the SC Highway Patrol is also investigating this incident.
Overview of Statewide Fatalities
The spate of accidents highlighted the alarming trend of road safety in South Carolina. As of August 10, 2025, there have been 513 confirmed fatalities on South Carolina roads. Last year, 2024, registered a staggering 948 deaths in crashes statewide, with Oconee County alone tallying ten fatalities this year. The ongoing investigation into these incidents underscores the critical need for enhanced safety measures on roads.
Historical Context of Traffic Safety
Prior to Monday’s events, another tragic single-vehicle accident occurred earlier in July on 3rd Avenue in Greenville, resulting in the death of 56-year-old Darrell Scott Puttman. These ongoing concerns over traffic safety in the region have drawn attention to the increased risks faced by both drivers and pedestrians alike, prompting local authorities to review safety protocols and traffic management strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What were the details of the crashes reported on Monday?
Two crashes occurred on I-85, one northbound in Greenville County near exit 54 and the other southbound in Spartanburg County at mile marker 62. Both roads were cleared and opened by 7:40 a.m., creating significant but temporary traffic delays.
What happened to the cyclist James M. Adams?
James M. Adams died from injuries sustained in a bicycle crash on August 12. He was wearing a helmet and was taken to Greenville Memorial Hospital, where he passed away three days later.
Have any firefighters been injured recently?
Yes, two employees from the Glassy Mountain Fire Department were injured in a crash while responding to a medical emergency in northern Greenville County. Their current conditions are unknown, as they were taken to a medical facility.
How many fatalities have occurred on South Carolina roads this year?
As of August 10, 2025, there have been 513 confirmed fatalities on South Carolina roads. In 2024, the state reported a total of 948 road-related deaths.
Key Features Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Crashes Reported | Two crashes on I-85 in Greenville and Spartanburg Counties |
| Traffic Conditions | All lanes open by 7:40 a.m. |
| Weather Alert | Triple-digit heat and potential storms |
| Bicycle Accident | James M. Adams died from a bicycle crash; wearing a helmet |
| Fire Department Incident | Two firefighters injured while responding to a medical emergency |
| Statewide Fatalities | 513 confirmed fatalities as of August 10, 2025 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Serious Bus and Dump Truck Collision on Interstate 85
Tragic Crash on Interstate 385 Results in Fatality
Fatal Motorcycle Accident in Piedmont Claims Life
Tragic Series of Fatal Crashes in Greenville County
Tragic Wave of Fatal Crashes in Greenville County
Traffic Disruptions on I-85 Due to Multiple Crashes
Motorcycle Collision Claims Life in Greenville County
Additional Resources
- Fox Carolina: Major Traffic Disruptions in Greenville and Spartanburg Counties
- Wikipedia: Traffic Safety
- The State: Traffic News
- Google Search: Traffic Safety South Carolina
- WBTW: Fire Department Crash
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Road Traffic
- Live 5 News: Teen Dies After DUI
- Google News: Bicycle Accidents South Carolina
- WCCB Charlotte: Bus Crash in Greenville
Author: STAFF HERE GREENVILLE
The HERE Greenville Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Greenville community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Greenville Our team includes lifelong Greenville residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sales in the Heritage Historic District 17 , Greenville’s textile and railroad heritage 2 , and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Greenville Technical College programs) 27 . Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Greenville Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
